Up to 170 guests celebrated the work of homeless veterans’ charity, Launchpad by attending a glittering Armed Forces’ Dinner last week.
The event, which was held in the Great Hall at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle upon Tyne, celebrated the work the charity provides to UK Armed Forces’ veterans who have experienced homelessness and have struggled with the transition into civilian life.
Guests were entertained by host Alfie Joey and the evening commenced with a 10-minute performance by the Tyne Electrical Engineers Association Pipes and Drums band.
Royal Marines veteran, Andy Grant who served with 45 Commando fighting the Taliban in Helmand Province in Afghanistan was invited as a keynote speaker and gave a funny yet moving and honest speech about his experience of serving and getting critically injured during an expedition, being medically discharged, facing life as an amputee and then how he has overcome adversity.
A live auction followed a delicious three-course meal and the evening was concluded with a performance by singer, Claire Louise who performed a selection of 40s wartime and Postmodern Jukebox hits.
One of the stars of the night was 6-year-old Jevindu Senyuth Dissanayake who donated a selection of hand paintings to the charity to auction off and raise some funds.
Jill Murray, CEO of Launchpad, said:
“It was a fabulous evening and it was great to see so many organisations and people attend to learn more about the charity and the work we do to support our homeless veterans. Thank you to all our sponsors and those who purchased a table, your support is greatly appreciated.”
The sponsors of the event included Esh Construction, Hydrock, now Stantec, believe housing, Northumbrian Water and Mode Rehabilitation.
Launchpad provides vital accommodation and support, with the help of specialist providers, to support homeless veterans who have fallen on hard times and have found the transition from military to civilian life difficult.
The charity manages three houses in the North of England and accepts veterans from all over the UK. It provides accommodation for 98 homeless veterans at any one time.
